Southern Vanguard 2025 exercises: mountain troops from the United States, Chile, Argentina and Peru practice survival and combat operations in extreme conditions

Exercise conditions: cold, altitude and difficult terrain

The first nine days of the Southern Vanguard 2025 joint military exercises were held in the extreme conditions of the South American Andes. The participants faced severe frosts, sudden temperature changes, high mountains and difficult terrain. These factors create a realistic environment for practicing survival, logistics, and combat operations in winter.

Special attention is paid to winter combat techniques, including skiing, setting up camps in snowy conditions and coordinating actions in conditions of limited visibility.

The participants of the operation are mountain units of four countries

Elite mining units from four countries are taking part in the exercises: Chile, the USA, Argentina and Peru. They are organized with the support of the Chilean army and are aimed at strengthening regional military cooperation and compatibility of tactics, equipment and communications.

For the United States, this is an opportunity to adapt its standards to the conditions of the Southern Hemisphere, and for Latin American partners, it is a chance to share experiences with one of the world's leading armies.

The FIT stage — from preparation to real action

After completing the initial stage of training, the so—called Functional Integration Training (FIT) stage began - comprehensive training. At this stage, the units work out the coherence of interaction, joint planning of operations and the application of tactical procedures in realistic scenarios.

FIT serves as a bridge between basic training and full-fledged field exercises.

Exercise Completion: Final Field maneuvers (FTX)

The exercises culminate with Final Exercise (FTX), large—scale field maneuvers simulating real combat operations. During FTX, scenarios for the search and destruction of a simulated enemy, evacuation of the wounded, radio exchange in the mountains and rapid deployment of forces are being worked out.

The completion of the Southern Vanguard 2025 is scheduled for August 29. The results of the exercises will be used to improve tactical doctrines and strengthen interstate trust.

Sources

1. Libertador.ru — details of “Southern Vanguard 2025” mountain-warfare exercises in the Antuco area (11–29 Aug) involving Chile, USA, Argentina and Peru, focusing on winter and high-altitude training.